NCAA FB

Can UCLA win its first Pac-12 title since 1998?

If UCLA is getting overlooked by pundits heading into the 2015 season, it's likely because the Bruins face the daunting task of replacing Brett Hundley. But ESPN's KC Joyner thinks UCLA has enough weapons to make it to the top. In his piece (subscription required), Joyner outlines 10 reasons why UCLA could win the Pac-12 title, and it starts with Paul Perkins.

"Last season Paul Perkins ranked fourth nationally in rushing yards (1,477)," Joyner writes. "Perkins displayed plenty of home run ability, as he ranked third nationally in rushes of 10 or more yards (43) and fourth in yards per carry among backs with 200 or more carries (6.5). He will be the centerpiece of this offense and could end up contending for the Heisman Trophy."

If Perkins can run downhill and be as elusive as last year, that'll give the new quarterback just enough of a cushion to ease into the starting role.